Can Khune rise again? Ex-Chiefs coach explains why he believes in redemption
A coach who oversaw Itumeleng Khune’s rise to prominence at Kaizer Chiefs has explained why he believes the former Bafana Bafana No. 1 deserves a chance at redemption.
Khune, once a titan between the posts for Amakhosi and South Africa, recently came under heavy criticism for both his on-field performances and off-field conduct.
Earlier this month, Khune rejoined the Chiefs squad after a three-month suspension for allegedly arriving to training in Naturena under the influence of alcohol.
During his suspension, Khune, stripped of the captaincy at Chiefs participated in programmes designed to address personal growth and development. The Soweto giants confirmed the goalie’s successful completion of these programmes before his return to the team.
The 36-year-old’s recent off-field conduct follows a period marked by long-term injuries and poor performances in goal. This has led to questions about his ability to regain his place as Chiefs’ and Bafana’s preferred goalie as he also gained weight.
In the current campaign, Khune, is yet to keep a clean sheet in five games in all competitions. And in the last three seasons, the former PSL Goalkeeper of the Year has only made 19 appearances.
Muhsin Ertugral ON ITUMELENG KHUNE: ‘HE WILL BOUNCE BACK’
But amidst the doubt, a familiar voice has emerged in staunch support of the goalkeeper. Former Chiefs coach Muhsin Ertugral says Khune has the potential to rise again.
Ertugral handed a then-inexperienced Khune his top-flight and Chiefs debut back in 2007 in a game against Jomo Cosmos.
“Khune is a special player and talented,” Ertugral told FARPost. “I have worked with him; what happened [suspension] was unfortunate, but he will bounce back.
“You did not expect that [ill-disciplined] from Khune, but we are all humans, and I have worked with players who had the same issue, and I believe he will get back up and add value to the club.
“He is a top goalkeeper, no doubt, and has been a good role model for years, so I hope he ends his career on a high. He has been a great servant of SA football. He turned out to be a great goalkeeper after his debut. I believe he will come right given a chance.”
The current season is Khune’s last dance with Chiefs, as his contract with the club is set to lapse at the end of June 2024.
However, he has expressed his desire to continue playing beyond this season.
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